She supposed Micky would not talk about Ashton because he was his friend; men were so absurdly loyal to one another.
“If you loved Esther as much as I do,” she said suddenly, “you wouldn’t stand by and say nothing while she goes and marries that man.”
Micky was prodding the tipsy cake with a fork.
“She hasn’t married him yet,” he said stoically. “And if she’s happy–––”
“She isn’t, my good man! at least only in theory!” June declared. “It’s not Raymond Ashton she really cares for, but some wonderful person she thinks he is. She is looking at him through rose-coloured glasses.”
Micky smiled.
“That’s what most women do, isn’t it?” he asked. “My dear girl, don’t get so upset; I thought you wanted to bring me out to talk business.”
“This is business, my business at least, even if you’re not interested. No wonder you didn’t want her to go to Mrs. Ashton’s!”
Micky coloured.